Learn about Snoopy’s family at the Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa through mid-September. (Image: Kathryn Reed)

Going to the movies and visiting a museum are usually separate activities. Not so at the Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa. This is home to all things Peanuts—as in the Peanuts cartoon strip created and drawn by the late Charles Schulz.

Running now through Sept. 16 is the special exhibit Snoopy’s Family. I vaguely remember his brother Spike. I knew nothing about siblings Belle, Marbles, Andy or Olaf. Of course he had a mom and dad, too.

At this exhibit I also learned about Snoopy’s engagement, and how Woodstock came into his life.

While reading the old cartoon strips involving Snoopy’s family members and viewing the exhibit pieces about them was enlightening, it was the 23-minute movie Snoopy’s Reunion that resonated with me.

Snoopy’s mom and dad each only appeared in one cartoon strip. (Image: Kathryn Reed)

Something about the animated Peanuts tugs at my inner child. These are heartfelt stories. Ones that are full of imagination, are whimsical, thoughtful and full of reality all at the same time.

It first aired in 1991, though I don’t recall ever seeing it.

I think the next time I go to the museum I’ll first look at the movie schedule to make that experience a focal point of the whole visit. Take a look at what’s showing at the museum in May. You’ll see why this could be the reason to visit this museum. The longest movie this month is 45 minutes.

• What Have We Learned, Charlie Brown?: The Peanuts gang tours France to learn about both World Wars.
• Snoopy Presents: To Mom (and Dad), with Love: Mother’s Day brings mixed feelings for the Peanuts gang. Peppermint Patty feels left out without a mom, but Marcie
• Interview with Charles Schulz: Charles Schulz discusses his life and the history of Peanuts in this interview by Charlie Rose.
• You’re a Good Sport, Charlie Brown: Charlie Brown competes in a charity motocross race against the Masked Marvel.
• Vince Guaraldi: The Maestro of Menlo Park: A documentary about the composer known for many of the Peanuts’ animated specials soundtracks.
• This is America, Charlie Brown: The NASA Space Station: Linus dreams that he and his friends are the first crew to live on the NASA Space Station.
• Charles Schulz: A Charlie Brown Life: An A&E Biography production.